Harnessing wind energy using a flapping aerofoil

This experimental project will explore a novel form or renewable energy. Structures in flow (wind, tidal etc.) can experience various forms of vibrations. Engineers have typically sought to suppress these vibrations to prevent damage to the structures, but in recent years have seen a growing interest in harnessing them to generate renewable energy. This project will focus on one promising case of flow-induced vibrations that is thought to be capable of achieving high efficiency; an airfoil experiencing 'flutter', large amplitude vibrations that are most commonly associated with airplane wings.

The successful candidate will design a device that can be tested in the wind tunnel facilities at Queen Mary University to measure the energy output from a flapping airfoil. A combination of flow visualisation and measurements of the fluid forces and motion of the structure will be used to characterise how the performance depends on various flow conditions and structural parameters. Low-cost piezoelectric materials, manufactured within the School of Engineering and Materials Science at Queen Mary, will be used to develop a prototype device to generate power.